What are omega-3s? What are the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids?

There are three main types of omega-3 fats: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). These omega-3 fatty acids are important for supporting a wide array of processes within the body, such as encouraging bone, skin, and heart health.

Your body is able to naturally produce many of the fats you need, but it doesn't produce enough beneficial omega-3 fatty acids on its own. To get a healthy amount of omega-3s, you have to source them from foods rich in the oils or from dietary supplements, like omega-3 fish oil. Fish oil pills, krill oil, and cod liver oil supplements are commonly used to support the healthy function of the brain, heart, and eyes.

What is the difference between omega-3s and fish oil supplements?

Fish oil and omega-3s are different in terms of their components and structure. While the omega-3s DHA and EPA are derived from the tissues of high-protein fish, such as sardines, trout, salmon, mackerel, and tuna, the omega-3 ALA be found in foods such as vegetable oils, flaxseeds, and walnuts.

Did you know: Fish don't naturally produce omega-3s – they acquire them by feasting on algae and other substances that contain the fatty acids.

Flaxseed oil vs. fish oil vs. krill oil

While fish oil benefits include offering a great source of omega-3s, borage and flaxseed oils are derived from plant-based sources. Fish oil is sometimes associated with an off-putting taste that can linger after taking a capsule or spoonful of the product. A popular alternative to fish oil pills and liquids, krill oil is derived from marine sources, such as small crustaceans and other sea creatures. Krill oil supplements typically don't produce a fishy aftertaste or reflux and offer similar health benefits to fish oil because the omega-3s are in a phospholipid form making them easier to digest and absorb.

What is black seed oil?

Also referred to as Nigella Sativa, black cumin, and black caraway, black seed oil has been used for centuries by Asian, Middle Eastern, African, Indian, and Mediterranean cultures to provide a variety of health benefits. It’s derived from a small flowering shrub that produces fruits containing tiny, crescent-shaped black seeds. Known for its culinary and medicinal benefits, black seed oil has even been found in King Tut’s tomb. The health qualities associated with black seed oil are often compared to those of oregano oil.